What should I check about a tree service’s crew injury history and safety records?

Tree work puts people at height, near saws and under falling wood, so a buyer needs to understand how safely the business operates. Ask for incident and injury records covering several seasons, along with notes on what changed afterward. Look for follow-up, not just a list.

Ask about training. Who teaches climbing, rigging, chipper and saw handling, and how is it recorded? Check whether new crew members are paired with experienced ones and whether anyone reviews their work in the field. A written safety routine that crews actually use matters more than a binder on a shelf. Review claims and any contact with workplace safety bodies or insurers. Your lawyer and insurance broker can explain what the records mean and whether any matters remain open. Talk to crew members if the seller allows it. Ask what happens when someone raises a concern about a job. A culture where people speak up is protective.

Finally, check equipment safety records and any recalls on tools. A reputation for safe work also helps recruit and keep good arborists.

Key takeaways

• Request multi-season incident, near-miss and claims records with notes on follow-up.
• Look at how training is delivered, recorded and checked in the field.
• Talk with crew about how concerns are raised and handled.
• Check the safety records of tools and equipment as well, because a reputation for careful work also helps recruit and keep good arborists.